There are very few things worth risking your life for. Initially, BMX riders were in danger of breaking a bone or suffering a concussion, but thanks to Mat Hoffman, the sport has transitioned into a far more daring activity that, in the most extreme cases, can bring athletes to the brink of death. Birth of Big Air details Hoffman’s rise to fame, his domination of the industry and the introduction of the mega ramp.

While promoting the film at the Tribeca Film Festival, producer Johnny Knoxville and director Jeff Tremaine were eager brag about Hoffman’s monumental impact on the sport as well as his passion, perseverance and dedication. A humble Hoffman listened on as his co-workers and friends praised his work and returned the acclaim by commending their filmmaking technique, particularly how they used those with a similar passion for BMX to tell his story.

But of course, there was no achieving greatness without suffering a slew of injuries. Quite a few of Hoffman’s bumps and bruises make it into the film, but there is no way to include them all. The boys bring up one particular spill after which Hoffman was fitted with an artificial ligament in a hotel room.

Hear about all this and much more for yourself in the video interview with Knoxville, Tremaine, and Hoffman below. Birth of Big Air is currently available On Demand and is set to air on ESPN in July.

Follow along with all of our special, Tribeca 2010 coverage right here.